Place d'Armes (Arms Square), Port Louis

Arms Square forms the ceremonial center of Port Louis. Despite its name, it is not an enclosed square but a broad boulevard stretching inland from the harbor toward Government House. Two rows of royal palms run along its central section, creating a formal avenue between the modern waterfront and the older administrative district. Banks, government offices, and commercial buildings frame the route.

Begin at the western, waterfront end, where the statue of Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais faces the harbor. Appointed governor in 1735, La Bourdonnais helped develop Port Louis as a naval base, shipbuilding center, and colonial capital. His monument, created by French sculptor Louis Rochet and unveiled in 1859, marks the entrance to the avenue.

As you continue toward the city center, the buildings on either side reveal the square’s practical as well as ceremonial role. Financial institutions and commercial premises occupy the lower, waterfront section, while administrative buildings become more prominent as you approach Government House. The avenue’s official name honors Sookdeo Bissoondoyal, an educator and social reformer associated with the political advancement of Mauritians.

Near the middle of the square stands the statue of Maurice Curé, while farther east, close to the Government House end, is the statue of William Newton. Government House closes the view at the eastern end of the avenue. Directly in front of it stands the statue of Queen Victoria, recalling the period of British rule in Mauritius.